Police are appealing for witnesses after a vehicle was deliberately set alight in a residential area of Poole.
Officers from Dorset Police were called at 5.48pm on Friday, 13 February 2026, following reports of a vehicle fire in Perry Gardens. Emergency services, including the fire service, attended the scene where the blaze was quickly extinguished.
The vehicle involved, a white Audi A3, was left damaged beyond repair as a result of the fire. A second vehicle parked nearby also sustained minor damage during the incident. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.
Following initial enquiries, officers believe the fire was started deliberately and are now carrying out a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
Police Constable Harvey Trehane, of Poole police, said officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area around the time of the fire.
“We are continuing to investigate this incident and I am appealing to anyone with information that might assist our enquiries to please contact us,” he said.
“I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed a man carrying a green jerry can in the areas of Green Road, Whatleigh Close or South Road between around 5.30pm to 6.30pm on Friday 13 February 2026.
“I would also like to speak to anyone who may have captured relevant footage on home CCTV systems, doorbell cameras or dashcam.”
Officers are urging residents in and around Perry Gardens to review any available footage that could help identify a suspect or track movements in the area during the specified timeframe. Even seemingly minor details could prove vital to the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55260021873. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online via its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
Police say all information will be treated in the strictest confidence as enquiries continue.
